Report on redress and civil litigation released today

In the report, the Royal Commission recommends that ‘in order to provide redress under the most effective structure for ensuring justice for survivors, the Australian Government should establish a single national redress scheme’.

“We became aware early on that redress was a matter of priority to survivors of child sexual abuse,” said Royal Commission CEO Philip Reed.

“Many people have been profoundly harmed by their abuse; their injuries are sometimes severe and can last a life time. Current and past systems have not provided justice for many,” he said.

The report contains recommendations in relation to the provision of effective redress for survivors through the establishment, funding and operation of a single national redress scheme and the provision of a direct personal responses to survivors by institutions.

“It also contains recommendations for reforms to make civil litigation systems more effective in providing justice for survivors,” said Mr Reed.

Mr Reed said the report’s recommendations have been informed by wide and thorough consultation.

“This includes private sessions where Commissioners have heard directly from survivors, public hearings, issues papers, private roundtables, consultations and information obtained under summons.”

The Royal Commission received formal submissions from more than 250 organisations and individuals to its consultation paper on redress and civil litigation released in January, many of whom spoke to their submissions in a public hearing held in March.

Mr Reed said that by reporting early, the Royal Commission seeks to give survivors and institutions more certainty on these issues.

“It also enables governments and institutions to implement our recommendations to improve civil litigation for survivors as soon as possible.”

Recommendations on redress contained in the report cover key elements of redress including the provision of a direct response, counselling and psychological care, and monetary payments. They also cover how redress should be provided including structure and funding.

Recommendations on civil litigation cover limitation periods and the duty of institutions.